Suspected trafficking ringleader held by NCA in modern slavery investigation

A woman suspected of being one of the ringleaders of a criminal network involved in trafficking young women from Nigeria to Europe for sexual exploitation has been charged under the Modern Slavery Act.

National Crime Agency officers arrested British national Joesphine Iyamu, 50, after she landed at Heathrow airport on a flight from Lagos, Nigeria, on 24 August 2017.

A 59-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of money laundering and has since been released under investigation.

On 25 August, Iyamu was charged with arranging to facilitate travel of another person with a view to exploitation – an offence under the Modern Slavery Act.

She has been remanded in custody and will appear at Birmingham Crown Court on 22 September 2017.

Senior Investigating Officer Kay Mellor said: “Criminals involved in modern slavery see their victims as a commodity that can generate income over and over again. They are adept at hiding their activity and often exploit individuals who are vulnerable and may not be missed.

“The NCA, with our partners, is turning over stones, seeking out the individuals who are profiting from this trade, prosecuting them and safeguarding the vulnerable people they exploit.”